Chess Boxing is one of the world’s fastest growing sports, part mind-game, part physical bravery and athleticism. I received notification of an event in London scheduled for April 1st including a political grudge match between UKIP and Lib Dem contestants. I checked to see it was all an April Fool’s prank

Not at all, I was assured. Get down to London to see it happen.

As Leaders We Deserve has more than its fair share of chess-playing subscribers, I thought the event might be worth a little more publicity.

The Chess Boxing Event

In this headline bout with political clout there is more at stake than just personal honour. Jonathan “The Tactician” Arnott is a strong club level chess player who fits boxing training around his duties annoying fellow MEPs in Brussels. His opponent and veteran of two previous chessboxing bouts, Toby “Slowby” White will be looking for payback after campaigning unsuccessfully for the Remain camp last summer.

The undercard has a strong Finnish theme with appearances from the giant Viking Lars “Lazarus” Bjorknas and his compatriot Ville “Jukola” Makinen from Helsinki. Cameron “The Hurt Locker” Little, the 6ft 7inch London favourite, returns following defeat in December last year. Also will be hitting the ring, a wily boxer and former junior chess player, Guy Cohen, making his York Hall debut this April.

PLUS: full undercard, live cabaret, DJ, dancing, special guests, announcer extraordinaire Matt Andrews, big screen projection and live commentary so you won’t miss a move!

Venue: York Hall, 5 Old Ford Road London E2 9PJClosest tube: Bethnal Green (5mins)Doors: 7pm. First bout 7.45pm
London Chessboxing has established a loyal cult following over the last six years winning rave reviews from all corners of the media for its totally bonkers mash-up of brains, brawn and pure entertainment. Chessboxing is an unforgettable experience!“Chessboxing… the muse of our era, crystallizing the symptoms of the system for all to discern.” Karl Ouch, 2015